Located in the bustling 11th arrondissement of Paris, La Poudrière is not just a cocktail bar—it's a journey back in time within a captivating 150m² hybrid space that spans two levels. Open since 2018, this establishment has quickly become one of the most secretive and attractive cocktail bars in Paris, offering a bespoke cocktail experience that promises to transport patrons to the bygone days of the 1920s with its art nouveau decor and a vibrant ambiance.
At the heart of La Poudrière's charm is the art of mixology, mastered and showcased by the talented Hervé Luu, a veteran bartender with over 15 years of experience in the industry, including time spent in luxury hotels. Hervé's approach to cocktails is deeply personalized: it starts with a conversation, a short oral questionnaire to discern the customer's preferences—be it acidity, bitterness, fruity, or spicy notes. What follows is a spectacle of mixology that includes unique techniques like burning Sichuan pepper with a blowtorch to infuse the drinks, adding homemade ginger juice, Italicus bergamot liqueur, and Monkey 47 gin to create cocktails that are both innovative and delicious.
Beyond its exquisite cocktails, La Poudrière offers much more. The venue itself is a significant part of the experience, with the main bar on the first floor and additional spaces in the basement, including beautifully themed lounge areas named the ammunition depot and the engine room. These spaces also host a dance and show floor, though this has been temporarily paused due to health precautions. The second bar in the basement provides a variety of drinks options from infused shooters to traditional absinthe, catering to all tastes with classics and more elaborate concoctions.
La Poudrière stands out not only as a bar but as a cultural hub. It is designed to be a meeting point for entrepreneurs, creators, and project leaders from various fields such as design, music, photography, and fashion. Regular events and meetings foster a sense of community and innovation among its patrons. This approach positions La Poudrière as more than a bar; it's a dynamic space for artistic and cultural exchange, making it a cornerstone in the Parisian social scene.
La Poudrière is more than just a destination for excellent cocktails; it's a comprehensive experience that merges top-notch mixology with cultural richness. It's a place where every cocktail tells a story and every visit offers a new opportunity to engage with Paris's vibrant creative community. Whether you're looking for a meticulously crafted drink or a lively spot to enjoy an evening out, La Poudrière promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Paris.